Caffeinate at one of New York’s best coffee spots, Ninth Street Espresso, which makes creamy foam-swirled lattes and the exclusive Alphabet City Blend, with hints of dark chocolate and citrus.
Take in stunning views of the cityscape and Hudson River. On a clear day, the Statue of Liberty can be seen from 10th Avenue Square.
Shakespeare in the Park is one of New York City's most cherished summer traditions and tickets are distributed free the day of the show at the park’s Delacorte Theater.
The hefty $20 admission fee is justified by the impressive collection, but consider going on Friday from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m., when admission is free (you’ll have to fight the crowds).
For the city’s freshest selection of oysters, head downstairs to the beloved Oyster Bar, which has been serving up briny shellfish (and chowders and fresh fish) under a vaulted tiled roof for decades.
Jane’s Carousel is a beautifully restored merry-go-round in a pavilion designed by Jean Nouvel. After a ride on the horses, head across the street to Grimaldi’s for its world-famous thin-crust pizza.
Swedish chef Marcus Samuelsson’s town house in Harlem serves a mix of multi-culti comfort food (fried “yardbird,” cured meats, and fish tacos). It's every bit as fun and stylish as the chef himself.
